How to avoid identity theft

Identity theft continues to rise despite the best efforts of law enforcement agencies. However a few simple measures that greatly reduce the chances that your identity will be stolen:

Do not use your mother's maiden name or place of birth as a security password

Check your credit record annually

If you move, make sure you let your bank know

Shred or rip-up post before throwing it in the bin

Never use the same password for all your accounts

Do not carry address details in your wallet

Make sure you have a good anti-virus software which regularly runs scanning programmes for spy ware, a personal firewall and a spam filter

Never keep passwords stored on your computer, or disclose them to anybody

If you are accessing banking details from a computer that is used by other people, ensure you do not click on "save" password, as another user could gain access, and consider clearing the cache and history after you are finished.

Check your bank statements and receipts carefully to ensure there are no fraudulent transactions

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